Sisäilmayhdistys ry or Finnish Society of Indoor Air Quality and Climate is an association founded in 1990, with the purpose of promoting work aimed at a healthy and comfortable indoor climate in buildings. Their mission is to improve the flow of information from research to practice and educate not only residents, but owners, and users of buildings to maintain healthy indoor climates. The achievements of Sisäilmayhdistys have had significant impact on the “Classification of Indoor Climate, Construction and Surface Materials” guidelines. Today, as many as 123 members have partnered and joined the association.

The Association’s latest activities saw the launch of guidelines for “Good indoor air recommendations”. An expert group will be convened to make those recommendations and write a consensus opinion on the subject. If necessary, an explanatory memorandum and guidance material will be prepared to support the opinion.

Various negative myths about indoor air are spreading thoroughly throughout social media in particular. These myths aren’t usually based on researched knowledge, but a perception that spreads from person to person without questioning it’s credibility. The aim of these recommendations is to assist in decision-making on matters affecting indoor air.

In terms of numbers, most indoor air problems are not actual illnesses but mainly the disadvantages experienced by a person. However, bad indoor air also plays a major role in human well-being and work efficiency. Typically perceived disadvantages are, for example, unpleasant odor, draft, stale air etc.

Several factors in the indoor environment cause an increase in the number of symptoms (Runny nose, cough, eye irritation, headache, fatigue etc.) Air temperature is the most important in these. However, the mechanisms between exposure and symptoms are often unclear and there are large differences between people. However, with poor indoor air, a person can even get sick. For example, allergic rhinitis and mold dust lung are clinically detectable diseases caused by airborne mold spores. Some indoor air pollutants, such as tobacco smoke or radon, increase the risk of lung cancer. The link is based on epidemiological studies from which conclusions can be drawn for the individual.

For more information please read here: https://www.sisailmayhdistys.fi/Perustietoa-sisailmasta/Terveysvaikutukset
(Only in Finnish 🇫🇮)